Trainer Nick Olive has been praised by Triple Crown Syndications for his hand in turning around the career of both Merci Grand and Celero.

The two horses failed under the training of Chris Waller in Sydney, they have both flourished since moving to Olive’s stable at Thoroughbred Park in Canberra.

Triple Crown Syndications manager Michael Ward believes the move south has done Merci Grand and Celero wonders.

“He has certainly gotten the best out of those two horses,” Mr Ward said.

“Celero has notched up five wins and also with Merci Grand she has had three wins at each of her last two preparations.

“Nick is a great trainer and does a great job with the horses we’ve given him. We are looking to support him wherever we can.”

Mr Ward believes Olive is doing a great deal for the local racing industry.

“We were aware of the good job Nick has been doing in his region and also with the horses he brings to town,” Mr Ward said.

“With both of those horses they weren’t necessarily up to metropolitan grade so we moved them to Nick.

“We thought they would be well placed with him as he can cover that South East region, further west, Canberra and also bring horses to town if they are up to it and that placement has worked very well for them.”

Mr Ward will be sure to place more horses with Olive in the future.

“We’ve only got the couple with Nick in the country. Previously we had Dragon Dance down there with him as well who recorded multiple wins also,” he said.

“His success rate with our horses, it has been a very good fit.

“Every horse we have sent him he has done a terrific job.

“I couldn’t speak more highly of him.”

Merci Grand is now in the top spot for the Canberra Horse Of The Year, while Celero is currently sitting in third.

“Merci Grand is currently leading the 2010/2011 Canberra Horse Of The Year so that is further testament to the job Nick has done with her,” Mr ward said.

“Nick is certainly doing a good job with both of them.”